To THE BRETHREN:—The subject presented in the above article, is one of great importance. The testimony of the Bible relative to the time of commencing the Sabbath is here brought together, that it may speak for itself. The result of the investigation is the firm conviction that the commencement and close of each day is marked by the setting of the sun. It will be asked why this conclusion was not earlier arrived at? The answer is this: the subject has not been hitherto thoroughly investigated. In making this statement I would frankly acknowledge my own fault. It is always duty to correct our errors when we see them; and, however, sincerely we may have acted in the past, we can no longer act so, if when we see a fault as such, or a mistake we refuse to acknowledge it.
It may be proper to state the circumstances under which the above article was written. Last August, brother White and other brethren requested me to give the subject a thorough investigation. This I immediately endeavored to do, devoting to the subject each day, as much time as my strength would admit. In a short time I became entirely satisfied that the unanimous testimony of the Scriptures is, that each day commences with the setting of the sun. The Seventh-day Baptists have always held to this doctrine, but I have never happened to meet with their views. Had I done so, I should not have remained in error on this subject. But it will be asked, Did you not learn the truth from the Messenger? I answer, No. The article here presented was written several weeks before the M. had published anything on the point. I can have no fellowship for a sheet conducted in the manner that the M. has hitherto been. But the testimony of the Bible is equally precious though it may have been presented for the purpose of envy or strife. Besides this, as I now learn a considerable number of our brethren have long been convinced that the Sabbath commences at sunset. J. N. A.
Battle Creek, Mich., Nov. 12th, 1855.
Time of the Sabbath.
By James White
EQUATOR'AL time, or from six o'clock to six o'clock, has been observed by the body of Sabbath-keepers. The truth is, the subject has not been fully investigated till within a few months. We have never been fully satisfied with the testimony presented in favor of six o'clock. While the various communications received for a few years past, advocating both sun-rise and sunset time, have been almost destitute of argument, and the spirit of humility and candor. The subject has troubled us, yet we have never found time to thoroughly investigate it.
In June, 1854, we urged Eld. D. P. Hall to prepare an article on the subject for the REVIEW. When with him in Penn. last Winter we repeated the request. When in Maine last Summer we stated our feelings on the subject to Bro. Andrews, and our fears of division unless the question could be settled by good testimony. He decided to devote his time to the subject till he ascertained what the Bible taught in regard to it, and his article in this No. is the result of his investigations. Some have the impression that six o'clock time has been taught among us by the direct manifestation of the Holy Spirit. This is a mistake. "From even to even," was the teaching, from which six o'clock time has been inferred. We now rejoice that Bro. Andrews has presented the Bible testimony on this question, in his accustomed forcible, candid manner, which settles the question beyond all doubt that the Sabbath commences not only at even, but at the setting of the sun. J. W.
The Office.
By James White
We are happy to state to the friends of the REVIEW that the Office building, erected by four brethren in this State, is completed, and that the Press, Type, &c., had a safe and prosperous removal from Rochester, N. Y., to its new location. The Office building is commodious, and occupies a retired, pleasant, and healthy situation. All connected with the Office enter upon their work with fresh courage, and pleasing hopes of witnessing the prosperity of the REVIEW, and the spread of truth and holiness in the land. J. W.
Expenses of Moving the Office.
By James White
IN No. 5 we stated that "the Brethren in Michigan cheerfully take upon themselves the responsibilities of the REVIEW Office. They will probably move it to that State this Fall." We regret that some received the impression from that statement that the Brethren in this State would bear the expenses of moving the Office, and fitting it up for business here. We did not intend to give such an idea, and do not see why they should bear this expense alone. The Office is the property of the Church.
We called on the Church to take off from us the responsibilities of the Office. Brn. in Vt. offered to move the Office to that State, about the time the offer came from Michigan, yet it was the opinion of leading brethren in Vt. that the Press should go West. All were willing it should go West. And it should be understood, that no person had suggested difficulties, or their unwillingness, in regard to the Press going West, up to the time that arrangements were all made, and the Office building was erected. If the Brethren in New York, or any other State, had desired the Office to remain in Rochester, they should have regarded our repeated calls to the Church, for the last six months, and taken steps in season to free us from a burden that was fast crushing us to the grave. The ever faithful friends of the cause in Michigan have come forward in a time of need. The Office building is erected expressly for the REVIEW Office. They have chosen a Publishing Committee who will manage the financial matters of the Office for the Church, free of charge. And now they most certainly have reason to expect the prompt and hearty co-operation of the Brn. East and West. J. W.
COMMUNICATIONS.
By Nancy A. Scripture
From Sister Scripture.
DEAR BRO. WHITE:—I feel thankful that there is a way through which the scattered remnant can speak one with another, of the blessed hope of soon seeing the Lord and being made like him; for we know that when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. The Review is a welcome messenger to me, not only to strengthen and encourage, but to correct my errors. Although I had been a Sabbath-keeper and a reader of the Review for three years, yet I understood little of the subject of gospel order until it was made so plain in the Review of last January. When I compared it with the Bible, I could see its clearness. I was going astray and my feet had well near slipped. I feel to say indeed, Through thy precepts I get understanding; therefore I hate every false way; and with Peter, Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again to a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. Oh how clear the truth looks when rightly understood. It is my determination to embrace the whole truth and keep all the commandments of God, that I may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.
NANCY A. SCRIPTURE.
Essex Co., N. Y., Nov. 11th, 1855.
Sharing the Present Truth
By Mary F. Carpenter
From Sister Carpenter.
DEAR BRO. WHITE:—After so long time I wish to redeem my pledge, by sending my mite to help sustain the Review. I believe it is meat in due season for the waiting ones who love the appearing of the Lord. I have read it with much interest as I have also several tracts on the same all-important subject of keeping all the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, which I understand to be implicit confidence in every word of God.
Through the goodness of God and the kindness of my brethren, I have been blest with these truths, and to me they are precious; but you know the spirit of true christianity is far from covetousness: we want others to share with us, and I have endeavored to have others share these blessings with me, and read the books and papers; and I have so far succeeded that quite a number have read enough to trouble them, if I may judge from their appearance and confession. Some half a dozen have acknowledged it to be their duty to keep the Sabbath, but do not do it. I have presented the books to those whom I thought to be sincere inquirers after truth; and I was at a loss to know why they could not receive these precious Bible truths, until I was instructed that they were giving heed to false doctrine; but I still hope and pray that God will send laborers this way that will declare the whole counsel of God, and that some, at least, may be brought out of darkness into light.
I had the privilege of attending, one Sabbath, the Tent-meeting in Hardwick, where I heard three sermons from J. White, Hutchins, and Ingraham. Truly it was refreshing to hear and see some of those dear brethren from whom I have so often heard through the Review. I also attended a Tent-meeting at Johnson, Sabbath and First-day. Here we had a good meeting, and heard a whole gospel, and had a whole Bible recommended to us, and not as we have heard here, that the Old Testament was all done away, and we could not understand the book of Revelation, when the Bible says it is the revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants. And a blessing is pronounced upon those who hear, and read, and keep the sayings of this book.
The above mentioned are all the meetings I have enjoyed with those of like precious faith, but I anticipate a meeting with them on Mt. Zion where we will join in the song of Moses and the Lamb.
MARY F. CARPENTER.
Waterville, Nov. 17th, 1855.
A New Work.
By Editor
An Examination of the Scripture Testimony concerning Man's Present Condition and his future Reward or punishment.
The above is the title of a new and neat pamphlet of 196 pages, from the pen of Bro. J. N. Loughborough, most of which has already appeared in the REVIEW. By many it has been objected to works which have been published on this subject, that objections to the views here advocated, have not been thoroughly answered. In the work before us we consider all objections to the mortality of man, and the death of the wicked, fairly and fully met. Many have expressed a wish to see it in pamphlet form. Such will be gratified to learn that it is now ready for delivery; and we trust will at once furnish themselves with a copy. We can heartily recommend it to all our Brethren. It can be had of the Author, J. N. Loughborough, Rochester, N. Y., or at this Office.—Price, single copy, 18 cents.—Postage 2 cents. $12 per hundred.
A Message to Brethren in the West
By James White
I wish to say to Brethren in the West who have invited me to visit them, that it has been necessary for me to remain in Battle Creek till matters in connection with moving the Office should be fully arranged. JAMES WHITE.
Delays and Errors in Office Business
By Editor
In the labor and confusion of moving considerable delay is occasioned in attending to business matters which Brn. have sent in to the Office. Some things may be omitted, and others improperly performed. If any mistakes of this kind should occur, brethren will please inform us, and they shall be rectified.
The Time to Commence the Sabbath
By Editor
SEVERAL brethren have sent in communications to this Office on the time to commence the Sabbath. The article from Bro. Andrews on this subject, in the present No., will supersede the necessity of their publication, as they contain no arguments which are not here brought out.
The Use of Tobacco.
By Stephen Pierce
DOINGS OF THE CHURCH IN VERMONT.
At a general Church-meeting holden at Morristown, Vt., Oct. 15th, 1855, at which there were delegates from most of the churches in the State, the subject of the use of tobacco by members of the Church, was introduced.
After hearing remarks from several portions of Scripture, such as 2 Cor. vii 1; James i, 21; 1 Cor. x, 31; and some of the sayings of Christ on the subject of self denial, to enforce the above; and some other portions of inspiration; it was, without a dissenting voice,
Voted, That the use of Tobacco by any member, is a serious and bitter grief, and greatly lamented by the Church; and after such members have been labored with, and properly admonished, as long as duty seems to require, if they do not reform, the Church will then deem it their duty to withdraw from them the hand of fellowship.
By order of the Church.
STEPHEN PIERCE.
TESTIMONY.
By James White
We being present at the Conference at Jackson, Mich., last April, heard Elders Hall and Stephenson express themselves satisfied that the statements of the Messenger as to Church trials and those persons connected with those trials, were false, and that they were now prepared to go home and help their brethren in Wisconsin to unite their influence more fully for the REVIEW.
C. SMITH, H. LYON, W. HOLDEN, WM. M. SMITH, M. G. KELLOGG, J. B. FRISBIE, A. A. DODGE.
I was present at the Mill Grove Conference, and can testify that Brn. Stephenson and Hall, expressed themselves satisfied that the unfavorable statements of the Messenger, relative to the REVIEW and its supporters, were false.
U. SMITH.
These who testify here are all in Battle Creek. No others have been solicited to testify. Will all those Brn. who were present at the Mill Grove and Jackson meetings testify to the facts in the case by letter at their earliest convenience.
We have no desire to reply to charges which only bear against us as an individual; but it is our duty to defend the REVIEW and the truths it advocates; and save if possible the children of God from deception, even if it be necessary to expose the crooked ways of those in whom we have had confidence.
J. W.
Books for Sale at this Office.
By Editor
RATES OF POSTAGE.
"Books bound or unbound, not weighing over four pounds, for any distance under 3000 miles, when pre-paid, one cent an ounce. When not pre-paid, 1½ cents an ounce."
Hymns for those who keep the Commandments of God and the Faith of Jesus. This is the title of our new Hymn Book prepared for the use of the Church of God scattered abroad. It is designed to promote not only public worship, but also social and family devotions. It is a selection of Hymns of poetic merit, expressing the faith and hope of the Church as set forth in the Scriptures of truth, free from the popular errors of the age. The Book contains 352 Pages, 430 Hymns, and 76 pieces of Music. Nearly every Hymn can be sung in some one of the pieces of Music, which will promote uniformity and correctness in singing among the Churches.—Price, 62½ cents.—In Morocco, 70 cents.—Weight 7 & 8 ounces
Bible Tracts Bound in Two Volumes. These Volumes are of about 400 pages each, and embrace nearly all of our published Tracts. We are happy to offer to our friends the main grounds of our faith in a style so acceptable.—Price, 50 cents each.—Wt 9 oz each.
Sabbath Tracts, Nos. 1, 2, 3 & 4. This work presents a condensed view of the entire Sabbath question.—184 pages. Price 15 cents.—Wt. 4 oz.
The Sanctuary and Twenty-three Hundred Days, by "J. N. A." This work presents a clear exposition of Daniel viii and ix, points out distinctly the commencement and termination of the 2300 days, shows what the Sanctuary is, and the nature of its cleansing, and explains the disappointment of the Advent people in regard to time, and the true position of those who are now waiting for their Lord.—Price 12½ cents. Wt. 3 oz.
The Three Angels of Rev. xiv, 6-12, particularly the Third Angel's Message, and the Two-horned Beast. This work maintains the fulfillment of Prophecy in the past Advent movement, and is of great importance in these times of apostasy and peril.—148 pages.—Price 12½ cents.—Wt. 2 oz
Review of Crozier. This work is a faithful review of the No-Sabbath doctrine as set forth in the Advent Harbinger by O. R. L. Crozier. It should be placed in the hands of those who are exposed to that heresy.—Price 6 cents.—Wt. 2 oz.
The Bible Class. This work contains 52 Lessons on the Law of God and the Faith of Jesus. with questions. It is peculiarly adapted to the wants of those of every age who are unacquainted with our views of these subjects, especially the young.—Bound 25 cents.—Wt. 4 oz.—Paper covers, 18¾ cents.—Wt. 3 oz.
The Four Universal Monarchies of the Prophecy of Daniel, and the Kingdom of God, to which is added a condensed view of the 2300 days and the Sanctuary.—Price 8 cents.—Wt. 2 oz.
The Sabbath. Containing valuable articles on 2 Cor. iii; Col. ii, 14-17, Who is our Lawgiver? The two tills of Matt. v, 18, Consistency, &c.—Price 5 cents.—Wt 1 oz.
The Law of God In this excellent work the testimony of both Testaments relative to the law of God—its knowledge from Creation, its nature and perpetuity—is presented.—Price 12½ cents.—Wt. 2 oz
The Atonement This work opens a wide field of Bible truth, and will be found a valuable assistant in the study of the great theme on which it treats.—196 pp.—18 cents.—Wt. 4 oz.
Man not Immortal: the only Shield against the Seductions of Modern Spiritualism. Without the great truth that man is not immortal, and that the dead know not anything, none are prepared to stand against wicked spirits in high places. We commend this work on the immortality question, as an able discussion of the subject.—148 pp.—12½ cents.—Wt. 3 oz.
Why Don't you Keep the Sabbath? Extracts from Catholic works.—Price 5 cents.—Wt. 1 oz.
Signs of the Times. This work presents the historical facts concerning the signs in the Sun, Moon and Stars, points out other signs of the soon coming of Christ, and contains an exposure of Spirit Manifestations.—Price 12½ cents.—Wt. 2 oz.
Last Work of the True Church.—Price 7 cents.—Wt. 1 oz.
Perpetuity of the Royal Law.—Price 5 cents.—Wt. 1 oz.
History of the Sabbath.—Price 5 cents.—Wt. 1 oz.
The 2300 Days and Sanctuary by "U. S."—Price 5 cents Wt. 1 oz.
The Celestial Railroad—Price 5 cents.—Wt. 1 oz.
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Review, Vols 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6, bound in one book.—Price $3.00. Vols. 3 & 4 bound in one book, and 5 & 6 in one book, $1.50 each.—In paper covers 35 cents a Vol.
Youth's Instructor.—Vols. 1 & 2.—Price 25 cents a Vol. in paper covers.
POEMS.
Home Here and Home in Heaven, with other poems This work embraces all those sweet and Scriptural poems written by Annie R. Smith, from the time she embraced the third message till she fell asleep in Jesus.—Price 25 cents.—Wt. 4 oz.—In paper covers, 20 cents.—Wt. 2 oz.
Time and Prophecy. This work is a poetic comparison of the events of time with the sure word of Prophecy.—Price 25 cents.—Wt. 4 oz.—In paper covers, 15 cents.—Wt. 3 oz.
A Word for the Sabbath This work is an exposure of the false theories in regard to the Sabbath.—Price 5 cents.
Liberal discount on those works where $5 worth is taken. Address URIAH SMITH, Battle Creek, Mich.
The Review "Sectarian."
By Editor
This is the decision of the late Conferences held in Wisconsin. But why this decision? Answer, Because its columns have not been freely opened to publish the Age to come, or future Age, or, what has recently received the name of "Gospel of the Kingdom." There are many important reasons why we have sought to avoid the discussion of the Age to come in the REVIEW; but we shall mention only one at this time.
When we were in Eldorado, Wisconsin, June, 1854, Elds. Stephenson and Hall stated to us that they were firm believers in the Age to come. We asked them if they had ever known one sinner converted, or a backslider reclaimed as the fruits of preaching Age to come. The answer was, No. We then asked if that, in their opinion, much harm had not been the result of preaching Age to come, in dividing the Advent people. The answer was, Yes. We inquired, Then why preach it? The reply was, We are willing to waive the subject, and unite on the third angel's message, if those who oppose the Age to come will do the same. (Reference was then made to some remarks against Age to come, in the REVIEW by J. B. Frisbie, &c.) We then stated that we could speak in behalf of Brn. East, that they would be willing to waive the subject.
At this point in the conversation, said Eld. Stephenson, The Age to come is premature, It is future truth, It is not the present truth, and if the third angel's message had been presented to us at the time the Age to come was, we should not have taken hold of the Age to come.
Are not these sufficient reasons for wishing to avoid a discussion of the Age to come? In view of them, every candid reader will decide that this Wisconsin charge of Sectarianism for seeking to waive the Age to come, and for adhering to present truth, is in fact, a recommendation to the REVIEW. Nothing appeared in the REVIEW bearing against the Age to come, up to the time of the Conference at Mill Grove, N. Y., last April, when Eld Stephenson pronounced the covenant, made at Eldorado, June, 1854 to use his own words, "null and void."
Being quite satisfied at the Mill Grove Conference that the discussion of Age to come could not be avoided, we there proposed to discuss the subject with Eld Hall, through Tracts. He write a Tract, then we would reply in a Tract, each equally responsible for the expense, and continue as long as he wished. Here the matter was dropped.
Up to this time we supposed that Elds. S. and H. were adhering to the above named covenant, (but have learned our mistake,) and when we wrote the Work on the Prophecies of Daniel, about a year ago, we avoided expressing our views of the time when the kingdom of God would be set up on the earth.
In our absence a re-published article from the pen of J. B. Cook, bearing against Age to come, appeared in the REVIEW, for which we made an apology. On the appearance of this article, Eld. Stephenson wrote to us, asking if we were willing to publish the other side of the question. In our reply we referred him to the Committee, stating that we would abide by their decision. Eld. S. did not stop to consult the Committee, but commenced denouncing the REVIEW and its conductors sectarian!!
Now our brethren in Wis. have agreed with the REVIEW on those vital points connected with our present message to the world; but because its columns have not been freely opened to the discussion of a theme which has been acknowledged not present truth, the late Conferences in that State denounced it as sectarian, and decide to withdraw their support. Here is sectarianism of the most exclusive sort. We are satisfied that the real friends of the cause of present truth in Wisconsin will not give their influence to so rash a spirit of sectarian exclusiveness. This matter fully explained, at some future date, will release the real friends of the cause of truth in that State.
But there is a still darker shade in this picture. Elds. Stephenson and Hall are giving their influence to a sheet of slander. They acknowledged last April before many witnesses in N. Y. and Mich., that they were satisfied that the statements of the Messenger in regard to Church trials, and the use of visions in those trials, were false. Has that sheet changed? Only from bad to worse, yet these professed teachers of truth and holiness now give their influence there.
New Subscribers.
By James White
ALMOST daily there are new subscribers for the Review. A little effort on the part of the Brethren to obtain subscribers will increase the list greatly. Let the Church look after the Lord's poor, and see that they have the Review. Within the last year several hundred names of delinquents have been erased from the Review list, but we are happy to say that many of them are being received again on paying for the Review, or reporting that they are unable to pay. Don't forget the poor, brethren. "Hath not God chosen the poor of this world?" J. W.
Books.
By Editor
Much good has been accomplished by the circulation of our publications. We have often been cheered with testimony, like the following from Canada. It was sent to Rochester, N. Y., re-mailed to this place, and received the 3d:
Letter from Canada.
Letter from Canada.
By James White
Dear Sir:—I have these last four years been agitating the seventh day as being the Sabbath of the Lord. I had also heard there were a people in the United States known as Seventh day Baptists, but until a few days ago I had not read any of your publications; and this was brought about by a young lady on a visit, left with her friend a Tract, Vol. 1, Nos 1, 2, 3 & 4. I have read it, and highly approve of all it contains, and intend to circulate them in my neighborhood. You will therefore send me one of all the Tracts mentioned on the cover of said Tract. I will then select what I think will answer me best for circulation. You will also forward to my address the Advent Review and Sabbath Herald. I enclose with this five dollars. If this does not cover all, send me as much as it does, and if any over, retain it until another order comes.
This is a favorable season of the year to circulate publications, as people will take time to read. In this way almost every one can preach to their neighbors, and their distant friends also, by ordering books sent to them by Mail. Better scatter ten books where they will do no good, than withhold one where there is hopes of benefitting.
Oswego, N. Y., Conference.
PROVIDENCE permitting, there will be a Conference of the churches in Central New York, held in Oswego, commencing Sixth-day, Dec 14th, at 10 1/2 A. M. It will continue over Sabbath. It is hoped there will be a general attendance of the Brn. in Oswego county, and at least one or two Brn. from each of the churches in the adjoining counties. We shall attend to the business affairs of the Conference Sixth-day, and would be glad to have a general attendance of Brn. at the hour appointed.
J. N. LOUGHBOROUGH.
BRO. J. Hart of Vermont will attend the Oswego Conference, Providence permitting. We will add that the Conference will be one of importance to the cause in New York, and that there should be a general gathering of the male members of the Church in the County, and of delegates from other Counties.
J. W.
Business.
By Editor
E. H. Ford.—Your papers have been sent regularly according to your direction by letter in Sept. Your money you will find receipted in REVIEW No. 7, and INSTRUCTOR No. 10.
J. Brooks.—In changing your address, you did not state where your paper has formerly been sent. Please do so.
A. H. Robinson.—We do not find the name of L. J. Oreal on our INSTRUCTOR Book. The letter to which you refer, we never received.
[[FIGURE]]
We design to get a quantity of Miller's Lectures, and Liton's Prophetic Expositions soon, then we can supply those who have ordered them.
THE P. O. Address of Elon Everts and John Lindsey is Round Grove, Whiteside Co., Ill.
Receipts.
By Editor
E. Pond, E. Grome, E. Emery, B. Hassolback, J B. Lamson, (for Mrs. M. Mason,) S. B. Craig, N. G Spencer, C Saner, H. Bremer, Wm Bixby, M. Carpenter, C. Simons, M B. Pierce, (for J. Pierce,) W. Mills, J. Edgerton, N. A. Scripture, J. B. Sabin, R W. Campbell, H. Brown, S Edmonson, Wm. Saxby, S. Burlingham, S. Harriman, Sr. M. Lewis, D. Stillman, D. Hardy, R. H. Brown, D. Springer, A. Miller, H. Brigham, B Stillman, S. Palmiter, H. Curtis, each $1.
M Stanton, E. Sanford, (50 cts. each, for G. Hubbard, and S. P. Haskell,) S. Armstrong, Mrs M Gardner, C. E. Champlin, A. R Mott, each $2 L Edmunds, (50 cts for M. Remington,) $1,50. C. Bigelow $0,64. E. Judd, R. Streeter, A. H. Robinson, D. F. Moore, (for C Chase,) E. Prior, E. Goodwin, (for Sr. Cochran,) each $0,50.
TO PAY ARREARS ON VOL. VI.—B. G. Jones, N. G. Spencer, each $1. N A. Scripture $0,25.
TO SEND REVIEW TO THE POOR.—R. Gorsline $1. I. Abbey $3. S. W. Rhodes. $6.
TO PURCHASE HORSE FOR J. N. LOUGHBOROUGH.—A. Z. Pond $1. E. Pond, H Smith, $2. J. Lamson $5. J. M. Lindsey $10. Church in Lorraine $20.
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